NCDHHS, USDA to distribute oral rabies vaccines
RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is partnering with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help stop the spread of rabies among wild raccoons.
Beginning October 16, Wildlife Services will begin aerially distributing oral rabies vaccine baits across 17 western counties, including Buncombe, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Watauga, and Swain. In Asheville, hand-distribution will begin October 14 and continue through October 16.
The annual oral rabies vaccination program has been in place since the 1990s. Its goal is to prevent the raccoon rabies strain from spreading west of the Appalachian Mountains, where it does not currently exist.
“The best way to prevent rabies is to avoid contact with wild animals and ensure pets are vaccinated,” said Emily Herring, Public Health Veterinarian for NCDHHS. “Through this annual oral rabies vaccine distribution and the vigilance of pet owners, we can work to prevent the spread of this deadly disease.”
According to a news release, the baits, which are small packets coated in fishmeal, are safe for people, pets, and other wildlife. If consumed, they immunize raccoons against rabies. Officials ask residents not to disturb baits unless they are found in areas unlikely to attract raccoons, such as driveways or lawns.
Precautions include wearing gloves if handling a bait, washing hands thoroughly, and ensuring children do not touch them. Eating a few baits will not harm pets, though it may cause stomach upset. If a bait ruptures, residents should carefully dispose of it and contact the number on the packet or their local health department.
In 2024, about 6% of the 4,000 animals submitted for rabies testing in North Carolina tested positive, with raccoons accounting for the majority of cases. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, making prevention critical.
The vaccine distribution is expected to wrap up by late October, with ongoing monitoring of raccoon populations and rabies cases to follow.
